Senior Living Community Residents Go All-Out for Dolly Parton’s Birthday

Upon delving into Dolly Parton's book Behind the Seams, Lindsay Charlefour, the life enrichment director at Waltonwood Main Senior Living community in Rochester Hills, Michigan, found inspiration for the center's upcoming theme week. Charlefour, 41, began considering the idea of celebrating and exploring the life of the country diva. The calendar quickly filled as she realized the possibilities and activities that could be incorporated.

The festivities surrounding Dolly Parton's 78th birthday on January 19th were full of information like an informative session about her cherished butterflies, a dinner featuring food from her native Tennessee, including dishes like chicken, dumplings, and butterscotch pie, and a book drive to support her Imagination Library. On another occasion, aiming to replicate Dollywood's renowned stampede, Charlefour arranged for a pony named Macho from a nearby farm to join the festivities. Macho even sported a Dolly-esque blonde wig, a charming touch that Charlefour notes was not only entertaining but also therapeutic, considering the soothing effect animals can have.

Charlefour took on the task of scouring Michigan for Dolly Parton CDs and memorabilia, creating diverse exhibits throughout the community. She aimed to provide residents with immersive experiences, allowing them to not only hear but see, touch, and interact with the displays. The more knowledge they gained, the more likely she felt they'd be to develop an affection for Dolly, a sentiment she passionately expresses.